Hi! Sorry if this is a dumb question, but I just got a puppy named Benny last week and he somehow ate some ant poison. I read conflicting things online about what to do. Should I be worried? What should my next steps be? Thank you!

Hi there! First off, don't worry—you’re not alone, and it’s great that you're reaching out. Puppies like Benny are so curious, aren’t they? Let’s help keep him safe. Whether you need to worry depends a bit on what kind of ant poison Benny got into and how much he ate, but here's a general idea of what to look for and what to do:

• Symptoms to Watch For: Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, muscle tremors, or lethargy. These can indicate various issues and need your attention.
• Emergency vs. Non-Emergency: If Benny shows severe signs like seizures, has trouble breathing, or collapses, that's definitely an emergency. Minor tummy upset might keep you on standby but isn’t necessarily a rush to the vet—yet.
• Toxicity: Ant poison products vary, but many contain boric acid, abamectin, or hydramethylnon. In low amounts, these may just cause mild stomach upset. However, some formulations could be more dangerous depending on the dose consumed.
• At-Home Steps: If Benny seems okay, offer him plenty of water to help flush out his system. Observe for any changes in behavior or signs mentioned above.
• Call the Vet If: You're unsure how much Benny ate, he shows any concerning symptoms, or if he’s acting differently than usual. Better safe than sorry!

Above all, trust your instincts as a pet parent. If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.